Kagome hummed softly as she leafed through the endless rows of scrolls in the Western Shiro's vast library. They had returned a few weeks prior, and despite the chaotic preparation buzzing through the palace for the gathering of lords next week, she couldn't be happier. Sesshoumaru had informed her that guests might start arriving soon, but she found herself only counting down the days until Shippo would finally be back home. Before they'd left the South, she'd entrusted Inuyasha with a heartfelt task—to bring Shippo back home, and maybe, if time allowed, stop by Sango and Miroku's village to see if they might come for a visit. Kagome missed her family more than words could capture, and with the announcement of her and Sesshoumaru's mating fast approaching, she wanted her loved ones beside her to share in the joy.
In the meantime, she kept herself busy by making herself known among the palace court. Most of the demonesses had warmed to her, but a few still lifted their noses and barely acknowledged her presence. Sesshoumaru had graciously offered to dismiss those few naysayers, but Kagome relished a challenge and was determined to win them over in her own way. She held informal meetings with them in the palace gardens, sharing tea, sweets, and lighthearted chatter. Naturally, the conversation veered towards the gathering and "What are you wearing?" discussions that delighted her to no end. When someone brought up intricate continental hairstyles, Kagome recalled seeing scrolls on the subject and promptly embarked on a hunt through the library.
But as luck would have it, the elusive scroll was just out of reach, resting high on a shelf that seemed determined to thwart her efforts. She stretched as far as her toes could lift her, fingers reaching just shy of the edge. She was so engrossed in her mission that she barely noticed the subtle shift in the room's air, the telltale sign that someone was near.
As Sesshoumaru approached the study, his patience had already worn thin. Word of Lord Haruto and his heir's early arrival had soured his mood—hardly the type of company he looked forward to entertaining. But just as he rounded the corner, he caught sight of his soon to be mate in the library. She was balanced on her tiptoes, straining for a scroll, her silk kimono slipping down to her elbows to reveal the modern tank top beneath. Obsidian hair adorn with a crown of flowers tumbled down her back in wild waves. A warm rush replaced the lingering irritation in his chest, his gaze drawn to her delicate form and the determined look on her face. Even the soft murmurings of frustration slipping past her lips he found endearing.
Taking silent, measured steps, he entered the library, creeping up behind her with all the stealth of a hunter. It wasn't until she felt a strong arm wrap around her waist and hot breath tickling her ear that Kagome finally realized she was not alone.
"Do you require assistance, my Little Goddess?" His voice was a low purr, carrying with it the promise of far more than just a helping hand.
Kagome felt a rush of heat flood her cheeks, the nickname sending a delightful shiver down her spine. She peered up at him with wide, innocent eyes, her voice a soft breath as she whispered, "I do."
A pleased rumble resonated from him, pressing against her back like a warm, rolling thunder as he reached his free hand up toward the scroll. But just as his claws brushed the edge, he drew back, his golden eyes meeting hers with a mischievous gleam.
"And what shall my reward be for retrieving this item for you?" he growled, his tongue flicking out to tease the shell of her ear before nipping it lightly.
She felt her heart skip a beat, a playful spark lighting in her eyes as she tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm…" she murmured, as though truly pondering his question. Then, with a surprising swiftness that had him raising an intrigued brow, she slipped out of his grasp and gracefully sank to her knees.
"I have a few ideas," she whispered, fingers deftly moving to undo the ties of his hakama.
The moment she freed him from the confines of his clothing, her fingers wrapped around his already hard length, and a deep, raw groan escaped his lips as he reached out to brace himself against the scroll-covered shelf. Kagome's sapphire eyes rose to meet his, and the sight of her stole his breath—a vision of enchantment, hair laced with wildflowers as though she were an earthbound goddess, a deity too pure to touch.
Kagome flashed him a wicked smile, relishing the way his head tipped back in pure pleasure. His entire body tensed as she gave him a few teasing strokes, her thumb gliding over the sensitive head. But when she leaned in, her tongue flicking delicately along the tip, his entire frame trembled, a hiss of anticipation escaping his lips.
He'd been yearning to feel the warmth of her mouth again, and the sight of her kneeling, gazing up at him with such playful adoration, was more than he could bear. She parted her lips, edging closer, and he held his breath, his pulse roaring in his ears. But just as she was about to take him into her mouth, the spell was shattered by a high-pitched, frantic voice at the door.
"Lord Sesshoumaru! Lord Haruto has—ACK!" Jaken's shrill voice was cut off abruptly as a hefty tome shot through the air, knocking the imp out before he could finish his announcement.
Kagome shot up and stifled a startled laugh, pressing her face into Sesshoumaru's haori to hide her embarrassment as he hastily tucked himself back into his clothing. She peeked behind him, her cheeks flaming, only to find Jaken sprawled on the floor, unconscious, and two demons standing in the doorway, frozen in stunned silence with wide, astonished eyes.
"Lord Haruto," Sesshoumaru greeted, his voice carrying a sharp edge. "Shinobu."
The Eastern Lord's son, Shinobu, gave a deep bow, his head dipped respectfully. "Lord Sesshoumaru. Thank you for hosting us."
Sesshoumaru's gaze was steady as he shifted slightly to the side, giving Kagome a subtle nudge forward. "Allow me to formally introduce you both to the future Lady of the Western Lands, the Shikon Priestess, Kagome Higurashi."
Kagome blinked, stunned by his use of her full name—it struck her that he'd never asked. She had barely a moment to process the possessive pride in his voice before she found herself facing the two bear demons.
"Oh," she stammered, feeling acutely aware of her black tank top and shorts, paired only with a loose kimono draped over her shoulders. Wrapping herself quickly, she gave a slight bow, ignoring the heat that flushed her cheeks. "It's a pleasure to formally meet you both," she said, shooting a quick, meaningful glare at Sesshoumaru. "Please excuse our, uh… unorthodox presentation."
Haruto's gaze was bold, lingering on her in a way that bordered on improper, his dark eyes glittering with interest that made her stomach twist. Meanwhile, his son kept his eyes lowered, an embarrassed flush staining his cheeks. Sesshoumaru, oblivious or perhaps entirely unsympathetic to Kagome's predicament, plucked a stray flower from her hair before brushing his claws through her messy waves. Then, he reached for the scroll she'd been struggling to reach and placed it in her hands.
"My Little Goddess was holding court in the gardens," he explained, his tone dripping with amusement, "and found herself in need of assistance retrieving literature."
Kagome's mouth twitched in annoyance as Haruto laughed and Shinobu turned even redder. "I should get back. I'll leave you both to… whatever matters you have to discuss." She made a move to step past Haruto.
Just as she brushed by, Haruto made an offhand remark, his tone patronizing. "Perhaps you should take my cub with you? I'm sure he would be far more interested in the affairs of women than suffering through these tedious discussions."
Kagome caught the young bear demon's gaze as he turned away, looking painfully uncomfortable, a new flush on his cheeks that this time felt different, more telling. Her heart pinched with empathy. The jibe was harsh, and in front of Sesshoumaru no less. Kagome couldn't let it slide.
She reached out without hesitation, taking Shinobu's hand in hers. "I think I'll do just that," she said brightly, a gentle warmth in her tone as she offered him a reassuring smile. "Come on. I'm sure the ladies will be tripping over themselves for a chance to talk to a handsome demon like you." With a lighthearted tug, she led him away, her voice carrying an easy, casual cheer.
As they disappeared around the corner, Kagome caught sight of Shinobu's shy smile, his demeanor lightening ever so slightly. Haruto, on the other hand, chuckled with a sardonic twist to his mouth, his eyes following them.
Sesshoumaru cast a pointed glance at him, his voice edged with restrained ire. "Was that necessary?"
Haruto shrugged, following Sesshoumaru down the corridor. "I'm sure she'll discover the truth soon enough," he replied dismissively.
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes further. He knew Haruto held little respect for his son, seeing Shinobu's gentle nature and sexual preferences as a weakness. The young demon's reluctance to mate the Eastern dragoness was another point of contention, but Sesshoumaru could see clearly that forcing such a bond would only bring ruin even without the war. He also knew that if anyone could help coax the cub out of his father's oppressive shadow, it was Kagome.
Masaru had barely crossed the threshold of the Western gates when he spotted a familiar red fox ahead. Shippo greeted him with a broad grin. Together, they made their way through the palace grounds, following the sound of laughter that trickled out from the gardens.
To Masaru's surprise, Lady Kagome was seated among the noble demonesses, each of them experimenting with elaborate braids and hairstyles, a lively assortment of silvery and pastel-haired figures. Yet, seated beside Kagome was another dark-haired figure he didn't recognize. Kagome and Rin typically stood out against the pale-haired courtiers, but here was someone new, with hair as dark as night.
Drawn by a tug on her senses, Kagome's eyes lifted from the stranger's hair, and the moment she spotted her son, her face lit up. With a delighted cry, she sprang to her feet, and her bare feet barely skimmed the grass as she ran across the lawn.
"Shippo!" she laughed, flinging herself into his open arms. He caught her easily, spinning her around, her laughter echoing in the garden, a sound so pure and joyful it made even the court demonesses pause to watch.
Shippo held her close for a few extra seconds before setting her back down, his emerald eyes sparkling as he noticed Rin across the way. She blushed under his gaze, offering a shy smile.
Kagome, meanwhile, stepped back to take in his appearance, an expression of mock dismay crossing her face as she lightly punched his chest. "Stop getting taller! If you keep growing up without me, I'll never forgive you!"
Chuckling, Shippo gave her a sly grin. "Sorry, Mama, I'll try to slow down," he teased, shrugging in mock innocence. Then, as if unveiling a secret, he dropped his concealment charm, and a single tail shifted into five luxurious, shimmering fox tails.
Kagome's jaw dropped. "Shippo!" She reached out as if to confirm that what she was seeing was real. "Five tails… you've grown so much," she whispered, awe in her voice.
Pride bloomed in her heart as she took in his transformation. Shippo, who used to fit so snugly in her arms, now stood as tall as Masaru. His once-round, childlike face had sharpened, his green eyes more intense, with the wisdom of years spent training hard. His ponytail, once a fluffy tuft, now flowed in a glossy cascade down his back, each strand a testament to his progress. The tiny fox feet she remembered were now replaced by strong, human-like ones hidden beneath dark blue hakama.
Looking beyond him, Kagome spotted Masaru and offered a warm wave. She asked, "Where's Inuyasha?"
Shippo waved a dismissive hand. "He stopped by the slayer village, but I didn't want to wait for him. I…" he glanced quickly at Rin, his cheeks tinged with color, "I wanted to be here to see everyone."
"Good," Kagome replied, her eyes brimming with happiness as she took both his hands in hers. Turning toward Rin, she added, "Actually, I have something I want to tell both of you."
As Kagome led her children away, Masaru stood frozen in indecision, torn between the desire to follow them and an inexplicable urge to linger, drawn by the unknown being among the demonesses. The decision was made for him when his mother, Makaira, called out with a smile.
"Masa, sweetie! Come join us!" She waved, patting the seat beside the unfamiliar demon.
Masaru took a few hesitant steps forward, only to falter as the dark-haired stranger turned to face him. The sight struck him like a physical blow, robbing him of breath. When the lieutenant's emerald eyes locked onto a pair of onyx, the world seemed to narrow, and time slowed.
The stranger was mesmerizing—beautiful beyond words in a way that defied simple description. Silky black hair cascaded like midnight, framing a face that seemed ethereal, almost angelic. But this wasn't a female; the newcomer was a male bear demon, his quiet strength and grace lending an elegance that felt both powerful and serene. His features were delicate with a sharpness softened by long, thick lashes that cast shadows over inquisitive eyes.
Masaru's mouth went dry, his usual composure crumbling as heat flooded his cheeks. He was no stranger to beauty, but this was different. The bear demon's presence seemed to ripple around him like a calming yet magnetic aura, stirring something deeply buried within. It was as if he embodied the wild yet gentle force of nature itself, exuding a calm that both beckoned and intrigued.
The stranger's eyes softened with curiosity, as if studying Masaru in return. That gaze held a question, an unspoken invitation that made the dig demon's pulse race.